Speak to Your Student Advisor

Get the support you need from your student advisor when it's convenient for you!

Call ACHS Student Services at (800) 487-8839 (Press 2) or schedule a time to chat about your progress in class, upcoming registrations, how to apply for graduation - anything you need to be successful in your studies and beyond!

Heather Baley, Dean of Students

Heather joined the American College in late 2001. She has a background in the hospitality industry, social services, and accounting. Heather graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Sociology and attended graduate school at Central Michigan University.

Today, Heather has immersed herself in aromatherapy. She has completed the Certificate in Aromatherapy program and enjoys making blends for herself and friends. Heather moved to Kailua-Kona in January of 2017. In her spare time, she loves to explore the Big Island, volunteer, and learn everything she can about Hawaiian culture and medicinal plants.

Joel Strimling, Director of Technical Student Services

Joel Strimling joined the American College in late 2005 with a diverse background and excited attitude. He brings with him over seven years of Marketing, Management, and Customer Service as well as a technical background. He has also had positions from wild land firefighting, to C.N.A., to technical management, and even a stint teaching martial arts. He is proud to have such a mix of experiences. Joel draws upon all of his experiences in assisting others using his varied path to develop his understanding of diversity.

Joel's natural health experiences come from nutritive competitive needs as well as outdoor interests and experiences. In his free time you might find Joel hiking or cooking, but most likely you will find him fishing one of his favorite rivers around the Northwest.

Melissa Trujillo, Director of Student Registration Support

Prior to joining ACHS, Melissa Trujillo worked in post-secondary education for close to eight years in admissions advising and student finance—with an emphasis on student success and retention. She has a strong desire to see others succeed and believes that education plays an integral role in success. "I am looking forward to being able to apply my skills and education to help students at ACHS succeed in their own educational and professional goals," says Trujillo.

Melissa recently completed a Master of Arts in Religion: Biblical Studies degree through Liberty University. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Masters of Science in Criminal Justice/Public Administration with an emphasis on Special Populations. Melissa recently began working towards an EdD in Organizational Leadership and anticipates completing her doctorate in the summer of 2017. She is the first in her family to earn a college degree and hopes to apply her education to more active participation in volunteering with at-risk populations.

Melissa is a native Oregonian and loves the Pacific Northwest. She and her husband—along with their two children and two dogs—relish all things outdoors: camping, hiking, exploring, running, and biking. They appreciate spending time together and taking advantage of all the Portland area has to offer. Melissa also enjoys photography, cooking, and trying new things. Schedule a time to talk with Melissa.

Or, give us a call at (800) 487-8839. We're available Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Pacific time and look forward to talking with you!